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The traditional Sho Dun festival began today in Lhasa City, capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region in southwest China.

Sho Dun Festival kicks off in Lhasa

Beautiful Lhasa City is decorated with red lanterns, colorful flags and flowers in full bloom. The city is now fully immersed in the joy of the week-long Sho Dun Festival.

“Sho Dun Festival” means “a special day to eat yoghurt” in Tibetan, so it is also called “Yoghurt Festival.”

It dates back to the 11th century, when lay people used to hold banquets featuring yoghurt for monks. Centuries later, it now serves as a showcase to the rooted tradition, culture and great piety of the Tibetan people.

The festival dates back to the 11th century, when lay people used to hold banquets featuring yoghurt for monks.

The festival dates back to the 11th century, when laypeople used to hold banquets featuring yoghurt for monks.

“It is a traditional event. It is Tibet’s largest and grandest festival. It has become our cultural symbol,” said Yang Nianhua, deputy director of Sho Dun Festival Organizing Committee Office.

This year’s festival consists of various parts: the Great Buddha Display, the Tibetan Opera show and a series of exhibitions and races. A grand carnival will also be held with tasty snacks and traditional cultural performances.

Authorities say the festival gives a chance for Lhasa to become a more international city and receive more investments.

“The festival lays the foundation for Lhasa to become an international tourism city. It will also promote business and investments. This year, there will be business negotiations during the festival,” Yang said. 

Since becoming part of China’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006, the festival has become a source of pride for Lhasa City. More and more overseas travelers are expected to be drawn to Tibet at this time every year.